Mi 1 - Circular route to the thick beech

We follow this to the edge of the village, where we turn left again. On an asphalted country road, the path gently climbs uphill. Soon we reach an inviting picnic area, which we share with cyclists on the Aartal-Loreley cycling route. From here we enjoy a wonderful view of the gently rolling landscape. A perfect spot for a short break.

We continue on a gravel path towards a small wooded corner where we leave the cycling route. We walk a little straight along the edge of the forest and then immerse ourselves in the green of the woods. After about 400 meters through the forest, we reach the hiking car park "Weißler Höhe." Here awaits us a lovely rest area with an informative panel presenting further hiking options in the area.

We continue our tour, cross the K 71, and proceed straight on a forest path. Already at the first fork, we keep right and continue on a pleasantly quiet forest path. After almost two kilometers, we reach the Fliegerkreuz (aviator’s cross). A place with a moving history. In winter 1947, an English bomber crashed here returning from a mission over Berlin. Only one crew member survived and was rescued by locals. Many years after the war, he maintained friendly contacts in the region.

At the Fliegerkreuz, we turn right and soon stand before another notable point: the thick beech tree. The British airman got caught in his parachute branches here back then. This tree has always been a popular destination for hikers, even though it has aged over time. An information panel tells of its eventful past.

We continue downhill. After a few steps, we keep right and shortly after turn left onto a country road. With a view of the Feldberg and the town of Katzenelnbogen, we follow the path down to a solitary tree. There we carefully cross the district road and reach the cycling route, which we follow to the right. Another picnic group and a stately lime tree attract our attention. Here once stood the village of Niederfischbach, whose inhabitants emigrated almost entirely to America in 1853 – hence, the area still bears the nickname "Little Texas."

The gravel path now leads us into a small woodland. After about 200 meters, we turn left and climb a meadow path up to a raised hide. There we meet a country road, which we follow a short distance to the right before turning left toward Mittelfischbach. Back in the village, we reach the street "Talblick" and follow the familiar path back to the starting point at the community center.